The relation between mitochondrial DNA （mtDNA） deletions

respiratory chain complex enzymes and kidney deficiency syndrome in the senility was studied by using polymerase chain reaction （PCR） and enzyme kinetic technique. Results indicated that the mtDNA deletion increased significantly and the activities of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexe enzyme I

IV in the senile kidney deficiency group decreased significantly as compared with the youth group and the senile control group. Wu Zi Yan Zong Pill

a prescription for tonifying the kidney

could reduce the mtDNA deletion and raise the activities of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexe enzyme I

IV in the senile kidney deficiency group. It is suggested that the oxidized injury of mtDNA can be regarded as one of the important reasons in kidney deficiency syndrome.